Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has invited people to give their views on an action plan designed to help older people in Northern Ireland lead active, healthy and independent lives.

The Active Ageing Strategy Action Plan supports the strategy, which runs until 2032. It sets out actions across government intended to promote independence, participation, wellbeing and inclusion as Northern Ireland's population ages.

Launching the consultation, Lyons said: "I know the importance of supporting people to live well as they grow older and creating communities where everyone can participate, contribute and live actively to their fullest potential.

"Through this new action plan, we want to help ensure that Northern Ireland is a place where everyone can look forward to later life with confidence, dignity and opportunity." The plan complements the Department for Communities' wider work on ageing. Its actions support departmental and Executive priorities, including reducing fuel poverty, improving housing, helping older people live independently, supporting employment and employability, and strengthening financial security.

Lyons added: "This consultation provides an opportunity for everyone to help shape how the Northern Ireland Executive and my Department, working with partners across government, the voluntary and community sector, and local communities, will support active ageing in the years ahead.

"I want to hear views on how we can create more age-friendly communities and ensure older people continue to have opportunities to participate, contribute and thrive. Together, we can build a future where growing older means continuing to have choice, independence and a valued place in our communities."

The consultation runs until 4 January 2027. The department plans to hold information sessions in Craigavon, Londonderry, Enniskillen, Ballymena and Belfast.

The consultation document is available at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-active-ageing-strategy-action-plan.